Critical Repairs Begin on Fox Point Hurricane Barrier

Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Workers performing essential repairs on the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier.

News Summary

Providence is set to commence critical repairs on the road covers vital for the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier vehicle gates on June 2. The $1.5 million project will last until June 27, focusing on South Water Street, which will be reduced to one lane during work. Repairs include concrete restoration, asphalt patching, and updates to pavement markings to ensure the barrier’s functionality and readiness for upcoming storm events, addressing the city’s flood prevention strategy as the hurricane season approaches.

Providence, RI – Critical repairs on the road covers integral to the operation of the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier vehicle gates will commence in Providence on June 2 and are expected to wrap up by June 27. The repairs will focus primarily on South Water Street, which will be reduced to one lane during the work. Motorists are urged to anticipate delays and consider alternate routes during the repair period.

The $1.5 million project will involve removing and replacing the existing road covers and performing essential repairs on surrounding structures. Specific tasks will include concrete and masonry repairs, asphalt patching and paving, as well as updating pavement markings. These repairs are critical to ensure the functionality of the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier and its readiness for anticipated storm events as hurricane season approaches.

Traffic movement will also be affected on Allens Avenue, which will be reduced to one lane as part of the traffic pattern changes. Detours will guide motorists from Allens Avenue to Blackstone Street, then onto Eddy Street, before returning to Allens Avenue. Crews will additionally reinstall upgraded gates at the Manchester Street Power Station, although this particular work will not impact local traffic.

Mayor Brett Smiley emphasized the necessity of these repairs for maintaining public safety and ensuring the barrier functions effectively during storms. The actions come in light of previous utilizations of the barrier, which was closed three times last year due to severe weather. The repairs aim to enhance the barrier’s capability in preventing flooding in Providence, where the potential for storm surges poses significant risks to downtown areas.

The Fox Point Hurricane Barrier was constructed following Hurricane Carol in 1954 to provide protection against flooding. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the city during extreme water events, including king tides. Given the challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels, refurbishments to the infrastructure have been initiated to enhance its resilience against these evolving threats. In fact, a recent $1 million study is underway to assess the barrier’s future sustainability as flood risks continue to escalate.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will closely monitor weather conditions and is prepared to activate the barrier in emergencies, highlighting the continual importance of this infrastructure in protecting the community. The pending repairs aim not only to maintain existing capabilities but also to prepare for future storm patterns that could risk lower-lying areas in Providence.

In summary, the scheduled repairs to the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier road covers are a vital part of the city’s storm preparedness efforts. By prioritizing these updates, Providence officials seek to ensure that the barrier remains a reliable defense against flooding, keeping both residents and businesses safe during severe weather events.